work and restorative practices. Westridge Advanced Courses introduced a new approach to our most rigorous Upper School courses that focuses on advanced cognitive skills and taps into vast reserves of research and knowledge about how students learn best. In a significant move for our physical campus, we purchased a property adjacent to campus that will allow us to expand our learning spaces in coming years.

 

Even though they only scratch the surface of life at Westridge last year, these moments weave together quite a story for our school! And as shared moments, they cement the bonds of our community. 

 

This year we’ve felt the power of those bonds. You demonstrate them in so many ways, including attendance at student and alumnae events, volunteering, gestures of gratitude to faculty & staff, as well as through your financial support, which we report on each year in our report on giving.

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During the 2022-2023 school year, we exceeded our Westridge Fund goal and raised 14% more than the previous year. Endowments also continued to be a priority, with new gifts for the Elizabeth J. McGregor endowed fund for DEIJ, the Forever Fund for financial aid, and the Juanita Jimenez Endowed funds for arts at Westridge. In addition, parents and alumnae helped fund special items such as the junior class rings and additional books for our library.

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As we thought about this report and its theme of advancing the story of our school, we returned to this Dostoevsky quote from Convocation: “But how can you live if you have no story to tell?” Your support of Westridge is a part of your story that you might take for granted, but its impact on the future of Westridge, its students, and the world is meaningful. We are grateful for your support and partnership. You made our first year as head of school and board chair a joyful labor of love. 

 

With gratitude,